Performing Nordic hamstring strength testing with additional weight affects the maximal eccentric force measured: do...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Strength & Conditioning

Background:

• The Nordic hamstring test is a standard for measuring maximal eccentric hamstring force.
• Current practice sometimes adds weight based on control of the final phase, lacking strong evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of adding weight (5 and 10 kg) on maximal force measurements during the Nordic hamstring test.
• To determine if control of the final phase influences the impact of added weight on force output.

Main Methods:

• 84 female and 56 male football players performed the Nordic hamstring strength test with 0, 5, and 10 kg loads.
• Visual inspection assessed the ability to control the final phase (last ~20°) of the movement.

Main Results:

• Maximal force significantly increased with added weight for both females and males at 5 kg and 10 kg.
• Both players who could and could not control the final phase showed increased maximal force with added weight.
• The percentage increase in force with added weight was consistent across groups, regardless of final phase control.

Conclusions:

• Adding weight to the Nordic hamstring test increases measured maximal eccentric hamstring force.
• The ability to control the final phase should not dictate whether weight is added during testing.
• Standardized testing protocols, either with or without weight for all participants, are recommended for consistency.